Boat Tours in Portimão

The Algarve coastline is among the most beautiful vacation destinations in Europe, with dazzling landforms, secret caves, and secluded beaches to explore. Relax on deck with your camera and a glass of wine, or plunge into the warm ocean and snorkel over thriving reefs.

When it comes to choosing a Portimão boat trip, there are several options to consider. We have hand-picked some of the best to help you decide.

What are the most popular boat tours in Portimão?

Portimão boat trips include short scenic jaunts to all the best coastal sights, as well as longer tours with scrumptious lunches on board.

Scenic cruises

Glide through the waves on a scenic sailing trip beside the most dramatic scenery in the Algarve. Admire hidden sea caves and towering cliffs from your comfortable seat on board. Inland there are rivers to navigate, lined with medieval villages, rolling hills, and lush vineyards.

Want to cool off? Then go snorkeling or swim to beaches for a stroll along the sand. These cruises are available by catamaran, powerboat, and pirate ship.

Sunset sailings

Head out to sea in the fading light, taking in picturesque landscapes and the changing colors of the rocky cliff faces. Most tours include wine tasting to celebrate the end of another beautiful day.

Dolphin watching tours

Combine coastal scenery with marine wildlife as you go on the hunt for dolphins. Sightings are frequent so keep your camera handy. The local onboard guide will teach you more about these incredible mammals, and there will be opportunities for swimming too.

Private boat trips

Scenic cruises can be enjoyed on your very own private boat. Explore the famous grottos and stop at quiet beaches, and on longer trips enjoy a gourmet lunch on board. These charter itineraries are flexible allowing you to discover off-the-beaten-track locations without the crowds.

How much do boat tours in Portimão cost?

Ticket prices for Portimão boat trips vary according to trip length and vessel type.

• Scenic coastal cruises range from €20 - €30 for a 1-hour trip, €20 - €35 for 2 hours, or €30 - €60 for 4 hours on the water. Full-day tours start at €65 including lunch.
• Trips up the Arade River are priced at €21 for 2 hours, €30 for 3 hours, or €71 for a full day out.
• A 3-hour pirate ship jaunt is €35 per person.
• Dolphin watching excursions are €50 per person for 3 hours at sea.
• Sunset sailing trips cost €30 including wine tasting.
• Expect to pay €226 for a 1-hour private charter, rising to €195 for 2 hours, and €650 for 3 hours. Full-day excursions are €1100 per boat. Private sunset sailing trips cost €300.

Which places are visited with a boat tour from Portimão?

Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is the star of the show on most Portimão boat trips. Tucked away on the Algarve coast, this majestic sea cave is only accessible by water. Carved out by crashing waves, the grotto has a magical little beach inside.

The partially collapsed ceiling has left a hole through which sunlight cascades down onto the sand, creating an ethereal world only seen by intrepid sea explorers. This is a fun stop with swimming and paddle boarding taking you further into the cavern.

Marinha Beach

Striking coastal landforms and plunging cliffs are the highlights of a stop at Marinha Beach during boat tours in Portimão. Punctuated by precarious limestone towers and russet-hued sea arches, the shoreline here is sure to feature heavily in your vacation snaps.

The emerald sea is idyllic for snorkeling, and the sandy beach invites you to relax or enjoy a picnic. Hike a short way up the cliffs for panoramic views along the coast.

Arade River and Silves

Cruising up the Arade River between Portimão and the medieval town of Silves is a relaxing affair. Enjoy breath-taking views of the Algarve countryside along the way. Keep an eye out for the imposing 17^th-century São João Fortress, and the impressive arched beams of the Portimão Railway Bridge.

Surrounded by vineyards and citrus groves, the ancient Algarve capital of Silves has a castle, market, and plenty of Moorish architecture to discover.

How long does a boat trip last?

Most boat tours in Portimão last a couple of hours. However, there are options for half-day or even full-day tours if you fancy spending more time on the water.

Sunset cruises are 2 hours long, which is enough time to soak up the scenery and enjoy the transformation of evening colors across the horizon.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Boat trips leave from various points along the Arade River in Portimão – the location depends on the operator. Some offer hotel pick-ups so do check before booking.

Several tours depart from the Naval Club near Portimão Museum, while others leave from further upriver at Ribeirinha, or from beside the São Francisco Convent ruins.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Portimão?

Portimão boat trips are best enjoyed between June and September when the sea is warm and the chances of a sunny day out on the ocean are high.

Come during Spring or Fall if you prefer to avoid the crowds – the weather remains mild, so this is still a great time for an Algarve boat tour.

Most Portimão boat excursions run during the day, but to catch the sunset make sure you choose a tour that departs late afternoon or early evening.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Portimão?

• Kayaking: paddle to hidden coves only accessible by sea and explore coastal caves that were once frequented by pirates.
• Stand up paddle boarding: get close to nature as you drift along the dramatic shoreline, checking out grottos, beaches, and of course enjoying plenty of swimming to cool off.
• Snorkeling: discover the world beneath the waves as you float above rocky reefs and shoals of shiny fish in the warm Algarve waters.
• Jeep tours: explore Algarve coast and the interior on an adventurous jeep safari.

Travel tips

• Portimão boat tours are popular so book your tickets online in advance of your stay for the best prices and availability.
• Take a towel and your swimming gear so you can enjoy snorkeling and sunbathing during the tour.
• Pack a windbreaker in case the breeze is fresh out on the ocean.
• Check your booking details for the departure location if hotel transfers are not included.